Club History

Probably not the original BPRFC team.

In 1871 Belsize Park RFC was one of the 21 clubs at the inaugural meeting of the Rugby Football Union, and therefore became pioneers of the game of Rugby Union. However, in 1878, Belsize moved to form Rosslyn Park RFC – going on to become one of England’s leading clubs.

It was not until 1971 that the current incarnation of Belsize Park RFC was re-established by a group of local players who developed a philosophy to not only win the game, but to also win the party! The spirit of the ‘new’ club was set in its first season, when Belsize developed its 15-man game style of play and the Club had its first tour – Paris. Party to 7 a.m., kick off 9 a.m., cognac/beer 11 a.m., femmes to finish, etc.

The die was cast and Belsize developed a reputation for fun rugby, immortalised in the words of our resident Doc … “how much energy does it take to die?”. By the late 1970s, the special spirit had evolved, enticing friends from all over the world, including a number of established internationals, who relished the concept of good, free-spirit rugby, blended with partying and socialising. And Belsize was also well on its way to building its reputation for touring. Indeed, the Club is now considered the most widely toured amateur club in Britain.

The Belsize IIs, 2014

These days, Belsize Park RFC has five weekly sides, a Vets team, an irregular 6th XV and the Regents Park Royals. The 1st XV compete in London 2. Our 2nd, 3rd and 4th XVs compete in the Middlesex Merit leagues as well as invitational tournaments. Our 5th team embody the best of social rugby. We also have a monthly Vets side and a mini section, namely the Regents Park Royals.